Nelly Korda is helping junior golfers in a major way. The Nelly Invitational winner—the AJGA event that World No. 1 Korda hosts—will now receive a special exemption into the Chevron Championship, the LPGA’s first major of the season
Chevron is also the new partner for the Nelly Invitational as it signed a three-year deal with the junior tournament, according to an AJGA release.
“I’m thrilled to welcome Chevron to the Nelly Invitational,” Korda said in the release. “With their support, we’re creating an event that not only brings together some of the best girls from around the world but also provides a platform to inspire and empower the next generation. Chevron’s investment helps us build on last year’s success and take this event further.”
The Nelly Invitational is played at The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton, which is Korda’s hometown in Florida. The tournament, played May 1-4, will award the winner a spot in the field for the Chevron Championship the following April in Texas.
Last year, Korda won the Chevron Championship—one of seven victories on the season. It was the lone major she won in last year’s historic season.
Chevron will also pay golfers a $2,000 stipend to help cover entry fees, flights, hotels and cars. International players will receive an additional $500 to help cover costs.
“Partnering with Chevron allows us to reduce financial barriers from players for what will become one of the top girls’ events worldwide along with providing a major exemption for the champion,” said Jason Etzen, the chief business officer of the AJGA. “Chevron is establishing itself as a catalyst for positive change in golf at all levels. Its focus on removing barriers and promoting competition matches perfectly to the AJGA. I can’t wait to see what we all achieve together.”